My research involves the measurement and modeling of dynamic mechanical phenomena in biological systems. In collaboration with Jin-Yu Shao (biomedical engineering) and Susan Dutcher (genetics), I study flagellar waveforms and measure mechanical properties of flagella using an optical trap system. We are currently extending this approach to characterize the elastic properties and active behavior of human cilia. With Larry Taber (biomedical engineering) and Anders Carlsson, I have built mathematical models of the subcellular and tissue-scale biomechanical processes involved in morphogenesis. We have obtained quantitative measurements of deformation during development of the embryo, particularly the brain and eye. I study dynamic deformation and mechanical properties of the brain in the context of traumatic brain injury. These projects exploit advanced imaging methods and image processing techniques developed specifically to quantify dynamic physical processes; they all involve collaboration between engineers and medical or biological researchers.

I am committed to providing a supportive and inclusive place to work, for every member of my lab and to all those with whom we interact, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, orientation, socioeconomic status, and religious or political affiliation.

I have worked to establish undergraduate research opportunities through the Washington University Summer Engineering Fellowship (WUSEF) program. As a professor and department chair, I have helped our Department increase our faculty and students who are women and from groups traditionally underrepresented in engineering. I truly enjoy and value engineering research and education, and will continue to work to ensure that all who wish to pursue engineering have an equal chance to participate and succeed.